Pakistan’s Bizarre Collapse After Abbas’ Record Against Homeland

Sports Desk

The first part of the innings was colored by Mohammad Abbas. Born in Pakistan but not playing for Pakistan, the son of a former Pakistani cricketer set the record for the fastest fifty on ODI debut while playing for New Zealand. Chasing around 350, New Zealand eventually won by 73 runs—but the victory came in bizarre fashion. Pakistan, while seemingly in a strong position during the chase, lost six wickets for just three runs and collapsed dramatically.

Chasing New Zealand’s mountainous target, Pakistan seemed to be scripting an uncertain drama. Needing just 96 runs with 69 balls and seven wickets in hand at one stage, victory appeared to be only a matter of time. But Pakistan seemed determined to uphold its “unpredictable” tag in world cricket.

Babar Azam’s dismissal in the 39th over triggered Pakistan’s collapse like a house of cards. His pull shot off William O’Rourke found Daryl Mitchell’s hands, and disaster followed. In the next 34 balls, Pakistan lost seven wickets for just 22 runs. Incredibly, the last six batters managed to add only three runs to the total!

Tayyab Tahir’s run-out, Irfan Khan’s golden duck, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf falling in the same over, and finally, the dismissals of Salman and Aqib Javed—all combined to create a strange script at Napier’s cricket ground.

In the end, Pakistan were bowled out for 271, handing New Zealand a massive 73-run victory.

After losing the toss and batting first, New Zealand posted a huge total of 344/9. With this win, the Kiwis took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

This match marked the debut of Mohammad Abbas, son of former Pakistani cricketer Azhar Abbas. While Azhar played for Pakistan, he now resides in New Zealand. His son, though born in Pakistan, is now a New Zealand citizen. His debut came against his homeland, and he marked it with a 24-ball fifty—the fastest on ODI debut—finishing with 52 off 26 balls.

Apart from Abbas’ fifty, Mark Chapman anchored New Zealand’s innings with 132 off 111 balls, while Daryl Mitchell contributed 76 off 84. For Pakistan, Babar Azam top-scored with 78 off 83.